Johnny Gill is bringing another dose of New Edition star power to an HBCU athletics event. For Johnny Gill, the appearance continues his connection to audiences who grew up with New Edition and his solo career. Johnny Gill gives Alabama A&M a cultural boostJohnny Gill is known as a member of New Edition, one of the most influential R&B groups of all time. Now Johnny Gill gives Alabama A&M another recognizable headliner who can help turn an athletics weekend into a larger cultural event. The 2026 Louis Crews Classic is scheduled for Sept. 5 against Miles College at Louis Crews Stadium, according to Alabama A&M’s football schedule.